Events

San Francisco, California Things To Do

San Francisco is known for its must-see attractions, art, nightlife, museums, entertainment, festivals, and diverse culture. Inn San Francisco is conveniently located near Noe Valley, the Castro District, the Civic Center, and more. From the top of our sun deck, view Twin Peaks, City Hall, the Bay Bridge, and Union Square. Our quaint San Francisco bed and breakfast inn is near the historic residential neighborhood of Mission Dolores. See highlights of several bay area events you’ll want to check out during your stay at Inn San Francisco.

Note: Some events may be canceled, postponed, or held with restrictions in place due to COVID-19. Please refer to the event website for updated information.

FOG Design and Art Show

40 Top Art Galleries and Design Dealers, exhibiting early 20th Century & On.
A benefit for the San Francisco Modern Museum Art Gallery
Details at www.fogfair.com

Annual Magnolia Blooms

Over 100 Rare and Historic Magnolias with fragrant pink and white blooms
Info on this annual event at https://www.sfbg.org/magnolias

Noir City Film Festival

Held in January at the authentic ‘thirties’ style Castro Theater, is one of the world’s most attended Noir Film Festivals. ‘Found’ classics, restored prints, resurrected favorites, every year this event brings together for ten days, the sights and sounds of the Noir Film Period. Into its second decade, with a rostrum of at least two dozen films, attend in period costume if it gets you in the ‘dark’ mood. More details and information at www.filmnoirfoundation.org

Edwardian Ball

The Edwardian Ball, held every February in the Regency Ballroom in San Francisco, is a period ball for the Belle Epoque set. This two day event has no specific dress code, but includes elements of the turn of the century Belle Epoque, Victorian and Edwardian periods. Whether your creativity leads to burlesque beauties, Gorey-esque gothic or just simply Edwardian period costume, playing at dress-up for this event brings out the total enchantment of a “Cirque du Soleil” party. Ticket information and dates found at edwardianball.com

Attend the Annual Chinese Lunar New Year’s Celebration

Two weeks of Performance Art and grand Activities that end in the superb Annual Parade through Downtown SF and Chinatown.
One of the World’s Top Ten Parades is held on a Saturday evening, with two hours of Marching Bands, Floats and Sponsors.
Dates and Details from the Chinese Cultural Center at www.c-c-c.org and www.chineseparade.com

Chamber Music

From Feb through May, hear some of the best Chamber Music presented in San Francisco.
Details at www.chambermusicsf.org

San Francisco’s Annual History Expo

This event showcases San Francisco’s rich history and benefits the San Francisco Historical Society.
Place: The Old Mint, Fifth Street, only three BART stops from the Inn SF
Details at www.sfhistory.org and www.sfhistoricalsociety.org

San Francisco’s Annual SF Tribal and Textile Arts Show

Over 100 International Dealers exhibiting for sale, Textiles, Tribal Arts, exceptional Artifacts, Objects and Art in a museum like setting.
Dates and Details at www.sanfranciscotribalandtextileartsshow.com

San Francisco Indie Fest

An annual Film Festival that dedicates itself to “The Best in Independent, Alternative and Subversive Cinema from around the Globe”
Dates and details at www.sfindie.com

Pacific Orchid Exposition

Celebrating over 60 years exhibiting some of the World’s finest Orchids for show and sale.
Usually held in Fort Mason, near Fisherman’s Wharf.

Dates and details at https://www.orchidsanfrancisco.org/events

Valentine’s Day

Come Celebrate one of the year’s most romantic times in the City known for its Romance and Adventure Parties, Special Events and Happenings from the SF Zoo, SF Symphony, SF Ballet and the SF Opera.

Black History Month

Numerous Events and Happenings throughout San Francisco and the Bay Area.
Celebrating the historic achievements of African Americans.
Visit the Museum of African Diaspora (MOAD) on Mission Street in Downtown San Francisco

St Patrick’s Day Parade

An annual event celebrating St Patrick’s Day
Date and map details at www.saintpatricksdaysf.com
Note that most Irish pubs in the City will feature green beer and block areas around their venues for the crowds who come to celebrate

Crossroads Irish-American Festival

Co-ordination with St Patrick’s Day, explore the arts and culture of Irish America.
Locations and dates at www.irishamericancrossroads.org

San Francisco International Asian American Film Festival

The Center for Asian American Media will celebrate with Concerts, Food tastings, Exhibitions as well as a wonderful selection of the latest Asian Films from America and around the world.
Details at www.caamedia.org

Macy’s Annual Flower Show

This amazing annual event featuring full window displays of massive flower displays, spring fashion shows, cooking demos and tours leads up to Easter. Each year there is a special theme.
For dates and theme go to www.macys.com/flowershow

Union Street Spring Celebration

Usually held in conjunction with Easter so may be scheduled in April, check for dates.
A unique Street Fair with entertainment, kids’ activities, treats in one of San Francisco’s toniest neighborhoods.

The San Francisco Flower and Garden Show:

An annual event held in the Cow Palace, San Francisco, is all about flowers, gardens, healthy food, and plant culture. With lectures, demonstrations, show piece gardens and like-minded individuals, join the more than 40,000+ attendees who attend this annual event. Details at https://norcalgardenshow.com/

Bouquets to Arts

An annual event benefiting the Fine Arts Museums of San Francisco (The De Young and The Palace of Legion of Honor) with over 125 floral designers creating arrangements that pay tribute to and draw inspiration from art in the de Young’s world renowned collection.

Union Street Celebration and Easter Parade

This Street festival 10 am till 5 pm features children’s activities, live entertainment, tasty treats and an Easter bonnet contest.
The Easter parade will be at 2:00 pm Easter Sunday featuring vintage cars, floats and costumed characters.

Visit https://www.thetowersatrincon.com/blog/union-street-easter-parade for more information.

Annual Seasonal Flowering of California Native Plants in Golden Gate Park

Enjoy the day strolling through the San Francisco Botanical Garden, where you can see a spectacular seasonal flowering of California native plants.
Among them are hundreds of species of wildflowers and a century-old grove of Coast Redwoods.
Information at www.sfbotanicalgarden.org

The Cherry Blossom Festival in San Francisco’s Japantown

A Spring Street Fair featuring traditional Japanese cuisine, arts and crafts.
In the Fillmore neighborhood north of Geary Blvd.
Info and schedule of events at www.sfcherryblossom.org

Star Chefs & Vintner’s Gala

A spectacular gathering of renowned chefs and celebrated vintners showcasing the finest restaurants and vintners in Northern California.
Benefitting the wonderful organization “Meals on Wheels”, helping feed San Francisco’s Seniors.
Visit https://www.mowsf.org/gala2022 for more information

San Francisco Decorator Showcase – April thru May

Twenty plus design firms from the West Coast transform a select mansion every year into a showcase of marvels.
Details and ticket information at https://decoratorshowcase.org/

The San Francisco International Film Festival

Once again, new films from around the world amaze and entertain.
Various locations around the city and film schedules at https://sffilm.org/sffilm-festival/

Anniversary of the San Francisco Earthquake and Fire of 1906

April 18th marks the anniversary of the well-known San Francisco Earthquake and Fire of 1906. Starting at 5:00 am at Lotta’s Fountain at the corner of Market and Kearney streets, city officials and attendees commemorate the fateful event that almost destroyed the remarkable city of San Francisco. Shortly after this event at Lotta’s Fountain, on Church and 20th Streets, the San Francisco Fire Department pays tribute to the ‘gold’ painted fire hydrant that saved this neighborhood from the devastating fires that swept the city for the next four days following the earthquake. Period costumes are encouraged.

Cinco de Mayo

Celebrate Mexican culture and heritage in the Mission District at various restaurants and bars.

Carnaval Parade and Street Fair

A parade and festival with fabulous costumes, bands and with a South American Latino Flair.
Street Fair along Harrison Street includes food vendors, artisans and music.
Times and street route information at www.carnavalsanfrancisco.org

Bay to Breakers

A 12K footrace, second only to the Boston Marathon in age, with serious contenders for racing titles and costume wearers out for a day of fun and frivolity. An “Only in San Francisco” event not to be missed.
Sign up at www.baytobreakers.com

Public Ballpark Tours of AT&T Park, home of the famous San Francisco Giants

Not scheduled during home game days.
Time and rates at www.livenation.com

Union Street Festival

Featuring more than 150 artists offering jewelry, pottery, paintings, photography, furniture and more.
Two stages with live entertainment, and food vendors with gourmet goodies.
Along Union Street between Gough to Steiner streets.

BottleRock Festival

Napa Valley hosts its annual Music Festival featuring three days of music with over 60 acts, comedy entertainment, food and wine or beer.
For dates, times and acts: www.bottlerocknapavalley.com

San Francisco Silent Film Festival

An unusual display of silent films, accompanied by live musicians at the Famous Castro Theater.
For times and films www.silentfilm.org

Stern Grove Festival (Also performing in July and August)

For over three quarters of a century, this renowned summer concert series has performed in Stern Grove, featuring classical, jazz, and ethnic music. Admission is free and picnics are encouraged.
For dates, times and a list of famous performers, go to www.sterngrove.org

Escape from Alcatraz Triathlon

Over 2,000 athletes compete in this annual triathlon that includes the famous swim from Alcatraz Island to the Saint Francis Yacht Club (1.5 miles), an 18-mile bicycle ride, and ends with an 8-mile footrace into Golden Gate Park.
Details and entry requirements at www.escapefromalcatraztriathlon.com

San Francisco Ethnic Dance Festival

For almost 40 years, this festival has entertained with “sacred, transcendent, glorious, powerful, the world intertwined…” dance as quoted from the New York Times.

For more information visit https://www.worldartswest.org/san-francisco-ethnic-dance-festival.html for more information

North Beach Festival

This unique Italian-inspired street festival in the historic Little Italy area of the City features more than 125 arts-and-crafts booths, 20 food vendors, live entertainment, street painting, a chalk area for kids and various beverage gardens.
Included will be a Blessing of the Animals, at the National Shrine of St. Francis of Assisi located at 610 Vallejo Street. Free Admission.

Visit https://www.northbeachfestival.org/ for more information

The San Francisco International LGBT Film Festival

This is the longest running LGBT film festival and one of the ten largest Film Festivals in the world. Running for ten days at several locations in the Bay Area, featuring over 200 presentations from dozens of countries, including documentaries, short films, and full length features. Culminating on the last day of the Pride Festival in the City.
For show times, films and prices, access the website at www.frameline.org

San Francisco Gay and Lesbian Pride Parade and Festival

Celebrating Gay Pride, as only SF knows how, with one of the world’s premier parades and a massive celebration festival in the Civic Center Plaza.
For location and times, search www.sfpride.org

San Francisco Silent Film Festival

An unusual display of silent films, accompanied by live musicians at the Famous Castro Theater.
For times and films www.silentfilm.org

Stern Grove Festival (Also performing in June and August)

For over three quarters of a century, this renowned summer concert series has performed in Stern Grove, featuring classical, jazz, and ethnic music. Admission is free and picnics are encouraged.
For dates, times and a list of famous performers, go to www.sterngrove.org

San Francisco Marathon

Half, double and full marathons: 5K race: kids’ races.
Races begin and end on the Embarcadero.
Info at www.thesfmarathon.com

Celebrate Independence Day at San Francisco’s Fisherman’s Wharf

Pier 39 Fourth of July includes live music.
SS Jeremiah O’Brien Liberty Ship invites you to see the fireworks from the deck.
Massive fireworks from barges out in the Bay engulf the Wharf area, an ideal vantage point to see the spectacular display. Starts at 9:30 pm

July Fourth Fireworks Cruises in San Francisco Bay

Blue and Gold Fireworks Cruise, www.blueandgoldfleet.com
Commodore Dinner Cruise, Gourmet dinner and DJ with dancing, www.commodoreevents.com
Hornblower July 4th Dinner Cruise, Dinner with Champagne, live entertainment, www.hornblower.com
Red and White Fireworks Cruise, www.redandwhite.com
San Francisco Whale Tours Fireworks Cruise, www.sanfranciscowhaletours.com

France’s National Holiday, Bastille Day, is celebrated in San Francisco and the Bay Area

Enjoy numerous parties celebrating with wine and food, at various French restaurants, “especially in Belden Place at Cafe Bastille and in Claude Lane at Cafe Claude.
Details for each celebration at www.cafebastille.com and www.cafeclaude.com

Fillmore Jazz Festival

This Street Festival devoted to Jazz showcases Bay Area musicians across the full spectrum of jazz music, along 12 City blocks.
There will be plenty of food and beverages, and arts & crafts booths.

AIDS Walk San Francisco Starts and ends in Sharon Meadows

For over 20 years, this is one of the largest single day fund raisers in Northern California.
The 10K Walk takes place in Golden Gate Park with refreshments, entertainment and celebrities encouraging participants.

For event details and entry requirements visit https://sf.aidswalk.net/

San Francisco Silent Film Festival

An unusual display of silent films, accompanied by live musicians at the Famous Castro Theater.
For times and films www.silentfilm.org

San Francisco Mime Troupe

An annual event showcasing the music, talents and satire of a pre-eminent Mime Troupe. Theme varies yearly.
Held in Bay Area parks and venues.
For details and times see www.sfmt.org

Stern Grove Festival (Also performing in June and July)

For over three quarters of a century, this renowned summer concert series has performed in Stern Grove, featuring classical, jazz, and ethnic music. Admission is free and picnics are encouraged.
For dates, times and a list of famous performers, go to www.sterngrove.org

Outside Lands Music and Arts Festival

One of Americas greatest showcases of music talent that is a sell out every year (annual attendance of 65,000), held in Golden Gate Park, San Francisco.
Sensational Music, Food, Wine, Beer and Art in a perfect setting outdoors, broadcast around the World on Ustream.
Be sure to reserve your tickets early at www.sfoutsidelands.com

La Cocina Annual Street Food Festival (a Non-Profit Culinary Incubator providing assistance to low-income, immigrant female entrepreneurs)

A weekend Street Food celebration bringing together well-known chefs with La Cocina program participants to create one-of-a-kind dishes, including a Night time Market that rivals those in Bangkok and Mexico City with attendance limited to 1,800 so that both the food and the chefs are approachable and the wait is not too long. In previous years, over 70,000 people attended the weekend festival to buy specialty fare from over 80 vendors, each dish costing less than $8.
Dates and times and street closures at www.lacocinasf.org

Annual Showcase of San Francisco Chefs

Experience the Best of San Francisco’s Chefs with Tastings, Competitions, Demos, Seminars, Dinners and Parties in a week long extravaganza.
This Food and Wine Festival allows you to experience some of the best tastings from some of the finest restaurants of San Francisco, including: Bay Area Vintners and Spirit Masters supporting food-related causes and culinary education.
Held in Fort Mason, San Francisco waterfront: Times and details at www.sfchefsfoodwine.com

Annual Pistahan Parade and Festival

Experience the best of Filipino art, dance, music and food at the Annual Pistahan Parade and Festival. Billed as the largest celebration of Filipino Americans in the U.S., the the two-day event organized by the Filipino American Arts Exposition is expected to draw over 60,000 people each day. Admission is free and fun for the entire family! Details and information of this year’s event at www.pistahan.net

Annual San Francisco Gem Show

The annual event is presented by the San Francisco Gem and Mineral Society and is entering its sixth decade. Presenting demonstrations, educational lectures and rock, gem and jewelry dealers from around the world. This event is usually held at the San Francisco County Fair Building, but check for information and dates at  www.sfgemshow.org 

Labor Day Weekend Events

San Francisco celebrates the Holiday with various events, including the San Francisco City and County Fair at Fort Mason.
For full details of events and happenings check out the SF Chronicles website for events at www.sfgate.com

Opera in the Park – Arias al Fresco

An annual event by the San Francisco Opera providing an afternoon, free concert outdoors to the citizens of San Francisco as a gift to start the fall season.
Featuring the stars from the fall season and the San Francisco Opera Orchestra. Picnics encouraged!

San Francisco Symphony Opening Night Gala

To start the New Season, the SF Symphony holds its spectacular Opening Night Gala in Civic Square, San Francisco.
The sold-out evening begins with red carpet arrivals and a pre-concert sparkling wine hour. Following the concert, enjoy a glamorous after-party featuring an open bar, dancing, bites from the city’s hottest restaurants and of course – as always- more beautiful music.

Details at https://www.sfsymphony.org/

San Francisco Opera Opening Night Ball

Not to be outdone by the SF Symphony, the SF Opera holds its own incomparable ball to begin the New Season.
Also, opening with a cocktail and dinner pre-performance, then after, a dance party to celebrate the start of another sensational year of Opera.
Details at www.sfopera.com

San Francisco Fringe Festival

Over the space of three weekends, see over 35 performances of theater, performance art, dance and general creative genius.
Truly, an “Only in San Francisco” event, including comedy, drama, weirdness, camp and the indefinable.
Information and details at https://fringefestivals.com/festival/san-francisco-fringe-festival/

Chinatown Moon Festival

For visitors unfamiliar with the Asian tradition of the Moon Festival, this event is a unique opportunity to participate in cultural festivities unlike any other in the world. Chinese opera performers commingle with martial artists, and contemporary pop groups perform alongside traditional dancers. Attendees will have a taste of true cultural diversity of this unique San Francisco neighborhood.
For details and dates www.moonfestival.org

San Francisco Folsom Street Fair – Leather Pride Week

An event not for the weak of heart, this leather, fetish, and kink event brings together inspired souls from around the world to see and be seen.
Usually the last week of September it culminates in a Street Fair on the last Sunday, check for dates and place at www.folsomstreetevents.org

Before Columbus Day Weekend: Fleet Week

Come tour the ships in harbor and watch the sensational Blue Angels perform over the skies of San Francisco.
Events scheduled the length of Fisherman’s Wharf and along the Embarcadero.
For details and dates see www.fleetweeksf.org

Castro Street Fair

Held on the first Sunday of October, this street Festival usually attracts tens of thousands of visitors to its many stages with live entertainment, dances, and events. Blocks of arts and crafts booths, food vendors, and festivities in a neighborhood known for its lively bars and events.
Held from 11:00 am until 6:00 pm on Castro Street between Market/17th and 19th Street and along Market from Castro to Noe Streets.

For more details visit https://castrostreetfair.org/fair/

Hardly Strictly Bluegrass Concert

Totally FREE and amazing Music in the Park with an attendance of over 600,000. Focused on but not limited to acoustic, bluegrass and roots forms.
This once a year event is held in Hellman Hollow, Marx and Lindley Meadows, on seven stages, in San Francisco’s Golden Gate Park.
For this year’s list of live music entertainers and band groups, Friday, Saturday and Sunday, go to www.hardlystrictlybluegrass.com
Also, Free Mobile App with directions, band schedules, and stages, food vendors plus more available at The App Store.

Italian Heritage Festival & Parade:

Celebrating the City’s Italian Community in North Beach.
Street closures, with food vendors, arts and crafts, and live entertainment.
Usually coincides with the City’s “Fleet Week” activities that feature the famous Blue Angels in a spectacular Air Show.

For more information see https://sfitalianheritage.org

The Annual San Francisco Jazz Festival

Come hear and see various groups celebrating Jazz.
Most events in the New Jazz Festival Hall in Civic Center, but other events in various locations in the City.
More details and schedule of events at www.sfjazz.org

Halloween in the Castro

Although the best parties and costumes usually happen privately the weekend before Halloween, the crowds that descend on the Castro for Halloween night should not be missed. Although not officially sanctioned by the City, expect the neighborhood’s bars to be in full swing.

World famous Mill Valley Film Festival

For almost 40 years, this world renowned film festival brings the best films the world has to offer, along with the elite of the film industry. Representing scores of countries, almost 200 features and shorts, with tributes, spotlights and special screenings.
Details of this year’s film line-up and dates with locations of film presentations check out www.mvff.com

Dia de Los Muertos in The Mission District in San Francisco and around the Bay Area

An evening celebration of the Mexican Holiday beginning with a procession of drums and Aztec dancers that culminates in the mural-painted alleys off 24th Street in the Mission District.

Dickens Fair

Since 1970, this popular annual event takes place in Cow Palace, in Daly City, just south of San Francisco.
“From the moment you walk in, you are swept into the theatrical environment,” says Kevin Patterson, whose family originated the fair.
No costumes necessary, but do join in the fun, music, entertainment of Victorian London with costumed actors, music halls, shops and pubs.
Through December.
Full details and admission times and rates at www.dickensfair.com

Christmas in San Francisco Crystal Fair

Another holiday event to get you in the spirit of the season. Crystals, minerals, jewelry, healing Arts.
San Francisco County Fair Building, Golden Gate Park
Info at www.crystalfair.com

Veteran’s Day Parade

Usually held the Saturday before Veteran’s Day, November 11th.
Also Memorial services held in The Presidio to honor the War dead.

Union Square Holiday Ice Rink

Starting at the end of November and open until January,
Ice Skate in the heart of Union Square, San Francisco, with rentals, music and refreshments.
Info at www.unionsquareicerink.com

Macy’s Tree Lighting Ceremony

Usually held at dusk the last Friday of November to kick off the Christmas Season. Includes live entertainment and special performances.
Macy’s holiday gift to the City, is a huge tree usually over 80 Feet high, with over 30,000 lights.
Google Macys San Francisco for date and time and headliners entertaining.

San Francisco Celebrates the Holiday Season

Various events and activities around the City highlighting the many celebrations only at this time of year.
For a full schedule of events check out the SF Chronicles things to do page at https://www.sfgate.com/thingstodo/

Event pages at www.sfgate.com

San Francisco Ballet’s Nutcracker (Helgi Tomasson – Artistic Director)

The event that is “the jewel in San Francisco’s Holiday entertainment crown” Los Angeles Times.
A uniquely San Francisco Nutcracker, not to be missed.
Tickets and times at www.sfballet.org

San Francisco Symphony New Year’s Eve Masquerade Ball

An annual event to end the year in style! Costumes, masks, entertainment, dancing and beverages.
For info www.sfsymphony.org

New Year’s Eve Fireworks

Held on barges in the San Francisco Bay near the Ferry Building and the San Francisco Bay Bridge around 9 pm.


Ongoing Monthly Events

DJs and Music Clubs

  • Chapel: Our Mission District neighborhood’s music venue. The west coast home of the New Orleans legendary Preservation Hall Jazz Band (3 blocks from Inn SF) 
  • Rickshaw Stop: Live music venue that offers food & lounge areas with Indie bands and DJs rock crowds
  • August Hall: A multidisciplinary events space 

Comedy Clubs


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